What is the Role of a Restaurant Manager

Summary

In this video, Ryan Gromfin, founder of TheRestaurantBoss.com, shares insights into the often misunderstood role of a restaurant manager. He explains that management is about daily tasks, organization, and ensuring everything runs smoothly—from staff schedules to customer service. Ryan emphasizes that managers are essentially 'babysitters,' overseeing details such as uniforms, cell phone policies, and staff performance. He outlines four key things employees need from managers: structure, consistent rules, the right tools, and a commitment to success. Using the analogy of a conductor in an orchestra, Ryan stresses that managers must be proactive, guiding the team to success.

Takeaways

• 😀 Managers should focus on daily, task-by-task responsibilities to ensure smooth operations in the restaurant.
• 😀 Restaurant management is about consistency and routine; it's not always glamorous, but it’s necessary for success.
• 😀 Management involves ensuring all tasks are completed, like checking employee schedules, sales, staff, and customer needs.
• 😀 A manager is essentially a 'babysitter' to ensure all rules are followed and tasks are completed correctly.
• 😀 Managers should enforce policies like no cell phone use in a proactive, friendly manner to maintain consistency.
• 😀 Employees need organization and structure from their managers to know what is expected and when.
• 😀 Clear, consistent rules are essential for employees to understand the expectations and follow them.
• 😀 Managers must provide employees with the tools and resources they need to perform their jobs effectively.
• 😀 A manager's commitment to their team’s success is key, ensuring both staff and business goals are met.
• 😀 A manager is like a conductor of an orchestra—guiding and adjusting the flow to ensure everything runs smoothly.
• 😀 Active, on-the-floor management is crucial for addressing immediate needs, troubleshooting, and ensuring a positive experience for both staff and customers.

Q & A

What is the primary responsibility of a restaurant manager?

A restaurant manager's primary responsibility is to oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring that tasks are completed effectively and efficiently. This involves managing staff, checking inventory, monitoring sales, and ensuring that service is running smoothly.

How does Ryan Gromfin define management in the restaurant industry?

Ryan Gromfin defines management as the responsibility of controlling and administering tasks day by day, ensuring that everything is done on time and according to established standards. It involves keeping track of various details and following checklists to ensure smooth operations.

Why does Ryan compare restaurant management to babysitting?

Ryan compares restaurant management to babysitting because managers need to constantly remind employees of their responsibilities, such as checking uniforms or ensuring that no phones are on the floor. It’s about consistent oversight, guidance, and making sure that everyone is doing their job.

What does Ryan suggest about managers’ engagement with employees?

Ryan suggests that restaurant managers should be actively involved with their employees by walking the floor, engaging with them, and addressing issues as they arise. This includes making sure employees have the tools they need to succeed and checking that tasks are completed.

What are the four things employees need from their restaurant managers?

Employees need: 1) Organization and structure, to understand what's going on and when it's happening. 2) Clear rules of the game, ensuring consistency. 3) Proper tools and resources to do their job well. 4) A commitment from their manager to ensure their success.

What role does a restaurant manager play, according to the conductor analogy?

In the conductor analogy, the manager is like the conductor of an orchestra. They are not directly performing the tasks but are overseeing everything, ensuring all parts of the operation work together smoothly. The manager coordinates and makes adjustments as needed, just as a conductor guides the musicians during a performance.

How should a manager handle a situation where an employee forgets to follow a rule, like putting their phone in a locker?

The manager should not focus on punishing the employee, but rather serve as a reminder. It's important for the manager to reinforce rules consistently and ensure employees are reminded of their responsibilities without creating a negative or punitive atmosphere.

Why is the management of daily tasks considered dull but essential?

The management of daily tasks is considered dull because it often involves routine actions and checklists, but it is essential for maintaining order and consistency. Ensuring that every task is completed on time and according to standards is crucial for the restaurant’s success.

What are some of the specific tasks a manager should oversee during a typical day in the restaurant?

A manager should oversee tasks like checking prep sheets, monitoring sales, making sure staff members are on time, ensuring the kitchen is operating smoothly, addressing customer concerns, and following up with employees about their duties and responsibilities.

What should happen if a restaurant manager is not actively engaging with staff or completing their responsibilities?

If a manager is not actively engaged or fulfilling their duties, it’s important to have a coaching session with them. The manager may need more tools, training, or resources to succeed. Ensuring the manager understands their role in guiding the team is essential for restaurant success.